A Struggle to Control One’s Destiny

Taking place in New Orleans around 1813, the dialog by playwright Marcus Gardley skillfully explains that Napoleon has recently sold the Louisiana Territory to the United States and with statehood, the status of many free people of color and those of mixed-race heritage is going to change.

The beating heart at the core of the tale is the black slave woman Makeda, housekeeper, nanny and confident to all played by Shenise Brown. Makeda is practiced in voodoo but declares she only uses it for good and does not partake in the dark arts.

Full compliments to Aaron Reese Boseman for pulling together one of the best ensembles I have seen in recent years.

Cast:

Top Row (Left to Right) Sandra Adjoumani (La Veuve), Shenise Brown (Makeda), Bryan Nicholas Carter (Man with the Bamboula), Sierra Coachman (Maude Lynn)

Second Row Down from Top (Left to Right) Kaylah Marie Crosby (Agnés), Sarah Driessen (U/S-Agnés and Maude Lynn), Britt Edwards (Beartrice), Jimiece Gilbert (Marie Josephine)

Third Row Down from Top (Left to Right) LaTorious R. Givens (U/S- Makeda and La Veuve), Quenna Lené (U/S- Beartrice and Marie Josephine), Ronald McDowell (U/S-Man with the Bamboula), Ron Quade (Lazare)

Bottom Row (Left to Right) Karli Scott (U/S- Odette), Aysia Slade (Odette)

Details: The House That Will Not Stand is at Invictus Theatre Company of Chicago, 3014 W. Irving Park Road, Chicago, IL and plays through December 14, 2025. Running Time is 2 hours and 45 minutes with one 15-minute intermission. For tickets and information visit invictustheaterco.com